Christabel’s inspiring journey with Pestalozzi International

Christabel’s life took a transformative turn when she joined the Pestalozzi Zambian Campus in 2004. Raised in rural Northern Zambia, she faced early hardships, with her father absent and her mother struggling to provide basic necessities. Her selection by Pestalozzi marked a new beginning, offering her not only an education but also stability and support. Reflecting on her first day, she remembers the joy of having her own bed, shoes, and three daily meals—a significant change from her life back home.

At Pestalozzi, Christabel excelled academically, earning mentions in the campus newsletter, which brought pride to her family. These experiences, along with Pestalozzi’s core values of “Head, Heart, and Hands,” instilled in her a broader perspective on life and empowered her to pursue her dreams.

After graduating in 2011, Christabel studied agriculture, a passion that aligns with her roots and aspirations. Today, she works as an assistant farm manager on an agricultural aid project in partnership with The JAF Foundation. She coaches our resident Future Leaders as well as instructs our SkillsHub clients on sustainable farming practices. Her knowledge is improving yields within the families of our Future Leaders and contributing to economic mobility through the vocational programme. Inspired by Pestalozzi’s support, she dreams of improving food security across Zambia. She also hopes to support vulnerable children, offering them the same opportunity that transformed her life.

To Pestalozzi’s supporters, Christabel expresses deep gratitude. Her story highlights the ripple effect of educational support, uplifting not only individuals but also their families and communities. Through Pestalozzi, Christabel’s life and ambitions have flourished, demonstrating the lasting impact of a quality education.